Quote Originally Posted by deermagnet View Post
What's the single most important thing a used car buyer is interested in? #1 above all others.

Yeah, the engine and transmission! I looked over that entire monstrosity of a list and saw absolutely no reference to how the engine or transmission operate.
Those are the most expensive parts being bought in this transaction.

Can the engine be started? If so, does it start easily and idle properly without using the gas pedal? Does it run good with smooth acceleration and no hesitation?

Does the transmission shift smooth and operate properly? Does it shift into overdrive when it should? Does the torque converter clutch lock-up when it should?

You're gonna ask the owner about odors, but not, "How's the engine running"?

Maybe I missed something in that list, but that stuff shoulda been at the top of the list from day one.

Mark Griffin
Maybe add "Does 4L/TOD system work?" also (unless that's what you meant by torque converter clutch lock-up).